Annual General Membership Meeting + International Achievement & International Hall of Fame Awards

December 4, 2024

The 1st World Trade Center Miami Annual Membership Meeting was an exciting and impactful event that showcased the vibrant future of global trade. WTCM President & CEO Ivan Barrios and COO Alice Ancona reflected on the organization’s growth, achievements, and shared exciting plans for 2025, which include new trade shows and initiatives to stimulate global business opportunities. The meeting featured insightful presentations from global trade experts, including Ken Roberts, founder of WorldCity, who spoke on the “Impact of Tariffs on Three South Florida Ports,” and John Price, Managing Director of Americas Market Intelligence, who shared his expertise on “International Trade Disruptions Ahead for South Florida’s Gateway Economy.”

The event also marked the leadership transition, with WTCM honoring outgoing Board Chair Manuel Mencia and welcoming incoming Chair Gary Goldfarb for 2025-2027. It was a dynamic and engaging start to a year of exciting international trade programs and opportunities for WTCM members and the broader business community.

The WTCM’s International Achievement & International Hall of Fame Awards ceremony celebrated exceptional individuals that have made transformative contributions to international trade. This prestigious event, held at the Hyatt Regency Coral Gables, honored:

–Grisel Vega, General Manager of Banco de Crédito y Inversiones (Bci) Miami, recipient of the International Achievement Award.

–Ambassador Chuck Cobb, Ambassador Sue Cobb, and Dr. Eduardo Padrón, each awarded the International Hall of Fame Award.

The event was a highlight for South Florida’s business community, uniting leaders to celebrate these visionary honorees who have helped shape the region’s global business landscape. Their efforts continue to inspire and elevate the impact of international trade in our community and beyond.